This drawing shows the front of St. Anthony Hospital. The main entrance is located to the left of the building’s center and will feature a stylish glass canopy over the drive-up area where passengers can be conveniently dropped off and picked up. The Emergency Department entrance is visible to the right. The hospital will be easily accessible from Canterwood Boulevard.

The city of Gig Harbor’s Design Review Board completed its review of the plans in January, moving the project closer to the completion of the permitting process.

Some design elements of the 217,000-square-foot, 80-bed hospital have been inspired by Gig Harbor’s maritime heritage. An exterior architectural column topped by an illuminated cross at the main entrance will suggest a lighthouse, while a stylish glass canopy over the drive-up passenger drop-off area was influenced by the curvature of a ship’s hull. Inside, wave-like wall and ceiling features pay tribute to the healing power of water.

“Just as St. Anthony was a guiding light for sailors, the new hospital will serve as a beacon of hope, service and compassion for the sick and injured who need medical care,” said Joe Wilczek, president and chief executive officer of the Franciscan Health System.

The design will incorporate natural materials like slate and wood, along with a healing garden and water feature outside. The facility will have parking to accommodate about 700 vehicles, along with an adjacent medical office building.

Free wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) will be available throughout the hospital. The lobby will feature a fireplace, a gift shop, an espresso and coffee shop.

Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF) Architects are the designers of the new facility. Sellen Construction Co. is the general contractor. Hammes Co. is the project manager.

Franciscan officials said these companies are among the most respected in their specialties because of their experience, expertise and commitment to quality.

A groundbreaking ceremony is being planned for late April or early May, with details to be announced by the Franciscan organization within a few weeks.

Development of St. Anthony Hospital and hospital services on the campus will cost an estimated $150 million, which will be paid by Franciscan Health System and its parent, Denver-based Catholic Health Initiatives, a private, nonprofit organization that is one of the largest health care systems in the United States.